Coolio Arrested after Loaded Firearm Found in Carry-On Bag

Coolio was arrested on Saturday (Sept. 17) at Los Angeles International Airport after a loaded firearm was found in his carry-on bag, reports Rolling Stone. He was charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, and when police discovered that the gun was stolen, they also hit him with suspicion of possessing a stolen loaded firearm.

The rapper (real name Leon Ivey Jr.) had already boarded the plane when the weapon was discovered, police reported. The rapper’s bodyguard originally claimed the gun was his.

“Upon arrival airport police immediately took possession of a carry-on bag in the X-ray screening belt,” airport officer Alicia Hernandez told the Los Angeles Daily News. “They also detained a 39-year-old man [Coolio’s bodyguard] who claimed to own the bag. Further investigation revealed that the bag contained items belonging to one of the suspect’s traveling companions who left the screening area and boarded an aircraft for departure.”

Coolio addressed the incident in a video message he posted Saturday evening shortly after he was released on $37,808 bail. “Just wanted to say something about the little misunderstanding at the airport today. Everything’s fine, I’m fine,” the rapper said. “I don’t know what’s going to be the result of this in the future but for now, I’m fine and I appreciate everyone’s concern.”